Feb. 10, 1942 - Feb. 10, 2014
GRANGER - Irene Mary Rickert, 72, of Granger, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 10th, at Joseph Medical Center in Mishawaka after suffering a stroke. Irene was born on February 10, 1942, in South Bend, to the late Matthew and Frances (Szajko) Kobylarek. As Irene Kobylarek, she married Terry Rickert in South Bend on August 7, 1965. Terry survives along with a daughter, Lisa (Mike) Biedron of Glen Ellyn, IL; two granddaughters, Allison and Katie Biedron; and one sister, Dorothy (Bill) Kobylarek-Brown of Chicago, IL. Irene was employed by Northwestern Mutual Life as an Insurance Administrator for 34 years. She was also a volunteer for the Homeless Center and the Literacy Program. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister who will be missed greatly. The family will hold a Celebration of Life Party in June to honor Irene and her wonderful life. Hahn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Association or to any Hospice.
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Lisa,Mike,Terry,Dorothy....Thank you, for your strength and love at the Hospital. You know I was scared and sad arriving that day, seeing my sweet friend for the last time. Thank you for allowing me to hold her hand, and tell her how much I love her. I will miss the Birthday celebrations with her every year with Michelle. She was always so interested in my life, never once, criticized or disapproved, just pure love and advice. She was AMAZING. Her Soul and presence is surrounding us.
Cherry Lee
March 15, 2014
Lisa, Terry, and Dorothy, I have been struggling to put into words my shock and dismay at your loss, as well as my own. I would most like to say thank you to Irene for being my friend for more than 30 years. It is so hard to believe she's gone. I want to thank her for noticing me and being in my corner even while I was at my worst. She had a tremendous impact on my life in big and small ways. She taught me how to cook and entertain by being good at it and making it look easy. She taught me to accept myself and others the same way. She lived her life with quiet dignity, purpose, warmth and relaxed agility. Those qualities actually made her life anything but quiet in their impact on others. She is already missed and will always be. I am a better person because of who she was. God bless her life's influence as it ripples out over this earth in the years to come.
Michelle Leichter
March 5, 2014
Mom is unable to send her own message but she was sorry to hear about Irene's passing... as was my brother Tim and his family. A donation has been made to the cancer society in honor and memory of Irene
Rebecca Gushwa
March 3, 2014
Irene has graduated to Glory . I am sorry to be so late in responding to the news. May peace and comfort find all the family and friends. . Death leaves a heartache none can heal ,love leaves memories no one can steal
Rebecca Gushwa
March 3, 2014
Irene was my mentor when I started working at The Todd Organization. She was a wonderful person and I can honestly say "didn't have a mean bone in her body". She was kind to everyone and really touched my life. Irene, you are missed. My heartfelt sympathy to you, Lisa, and your family.
Shellie Wooldridge
February 21, 2014
Dorothy and family so sorry to hear about Irene. I know she will always be in your hearts. Bless all of you.
Lynne Kaser Hines
February 15, 2014
My heartfelt condolences go out to Terry, Lisa, Dorothy and families. Many good times and laughs were spent together. May you find peace in the love and memories she left you.
Larry Andrews
February 15, 2014
To my beautiful Irene!! We will deeply miss you. I thank you so much for always having us for Thanksgiving and being there for me. I love you and miss you. May your angel dust gently sprinkle upon us from the heavens above.
Armando, Suzy, Jim, Dan Mariottini
February 14, 2014
Our condolences, thoughts and prayers to the entire Rickert and Biedron families during these difficult days.
Jim Bluemond
February 14, 2014
Irene will always hold a very special spot in my heart, she was truly a kindred spirit. Such a vibrant and caring person. I only worked with her for a very short time, but we kept in touch. Jerry and I send our condolences to her family during this very difficult time.
Pam Fell
February 14, 2014
Prayers and condolences to Terry, Lisa, and the rest of the family. Keep each other close to your heart and remember the good days and the fun times that you shared together. Know that we are praying for everyone.
RIP Irene.
Lori Goffeney
February 14, 2014
I had the pleasure of working with Irene at Northwestern Mutual Life many years ago. She was a wonderful person. May God Bless her family during this difficult time.
Becky Corwin
February 14, 2014
God has recalled one of his finest angels in Irene. A gracious, caring sister-in-law and aunt. Our family is going to miss her so much. Katie and Allison, Grandma Irene will be your guardian angel for the rest of your life's. She will help guide you everyday as you are growing up. Lisa and Mike, we are so sorry for your loss. Terry, as I said, I'm here if you need me. We love you Irene.
Bob Rickert
February 14, 2014
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